27.01.2000
Port of London Authority welcomes Shell Haven decision
The Port of London Authority (PLA) welcomes the announcement from Shell U.K. that exclusive rights have been given to the P&O Group to progress proposals for the redevelopment of the Shell Haven oil refinery site.
Commenting on the announcement, PLA Chief Executive Steve Cuthbert said: "We are delighted that P&O has been selected as the potential purchaser of the Shell Haven site. This is great news for the Port of London securing as it does the majority of the site for future port use.
"Although closure of the refinery was considered by some as bad news for the Port, the PLA recognised fully the opportunities provided by the release of such a large brown-field site. The proposal to create major new port facilities to complement those already in the Port and directly serving London and south-east England, is totally in line with the Government's policy to regenerate industrial land, securing new jobs and economic growth for the local community," said Mr Cuthbert.
"Since the initial announcement of the closure in September 1998, the PLA has been working closely with Shell and Thurrock Borough Council to ensure that the best possible use of the site is achieved. Through its current deep-sea liner services operating from the Port of London to Australasia, South Africa and South America, P&O is well known to the PLA. We look forward to working with P&O and Shell to maximise the full potential of the site."
27 January 2000
Further Information From: Geoff Adam or Roger Mutton
